Brittney Griner’s name remains strongly connected to the Phoenix Mercury, even though she now plays for the Atlanta Dream after signing with them during the offseason. While she has recently missed games due to a neck injury, Griner has maintained solid averages of 10.8 points and 5.6 rebounds when on the court. Her impressive rookie season with Phoenix in 2013 paved the way for her <a href=”https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/wnba/”>WNBA success and record-setting career.
Selected as the first overall pick in the 2013 WNBA Draft by the Mercury, Griner made an immediate impact. In her debut, she scored 17 points, grabbed eight rebounds, blocked four shots, added an assist, and made one steal. Notably, she dunked twice in that first game, a rare feat for the league and a sign of her remarkable talent.
Highlights and Honors from Griner’s First Season
Although Griner did not capture the Rookie of the Year award—an honor given to Elena Delle Donne, the second pick in the same draft—she was named to the All-Rookie Team. She also earned a selection to the WNBA All-Star Game during her first year but was unable to participate due to injury. One of her standout performances came in a win over the San Antonio Stars, where she scored 26 points, pulled down seven rebounds, and blocked five shots, helping the Mercury to an 83-77 victory.
Griner’s rookie year established her as a key player for Phoenix, setting a foundation for the impressive seasons that followed. Her second year saw her elevate her game further with averages of 15.6 points, eight rebounds, 3.8 blocks, and 1.6 assists per game. That season, she earned the Defensive Player of the Year award and played a crucial role in leading the Mercury to a championship.
Griner’s Lasting Legacy with the Phoenix Mercury
Throughout her tenure with the Mercury, Brittney Griner left an indelible mark on the franchise. She holds team records for rebounds, blocks, and field goal percentage, achievements that began to take shape during her rookie season. Phoenix continues to honor her greatness, most recently evident when she returned with the Atlanta Dream and received a warm reception in the city.
Looking ahead, it is likely that Griner will be celebrated alongside Phoenix Mercury legends such as Jennifer Gillom and Michele Timms, with her number eventually hanging in the rafters as a tribute to her contributions both on and off the court.
Continuing the Momentum of a Remarkable Career
Brittney Griner’s rookie season with the Phoenix Mercury set the trajectory for a standout WNBA career characterized by powerful plays and historic achievements. As she continues playing with the Atlanta Dream, the foundation built in Phoenix remains a critical part of her story, illustrating the early promise that has since flourished into basketball stardom.